Fin's Fish Guide
The Longspine scorpionfish (Pontinus longispinis) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 32 cm.
Western Atlantic, on soft bottoms of the continental shelf and the slope.
Description
The longspine scorpionfish is a scorpionfish (family Scorpaenidae) of the western Atlantic. The species reaches about 31 cm and has a stocky, reddish, mottled body with conspicuously elongated fin spines. On the rear margin of the fin spines sits thick glandular tissue believed to be venomous. It lives on soft bottoms of the continental shelf and slope, where it lies camouflaged on the bottom waiting for prey. Its diet consists of small fishes and crustaceans. A sting from the spines can cause a painful, venomous wound; the species is otherwise harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longspine scorpionfish?
The Longspine scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a marbled pattern. Elongated fin spines with glandular tissue considered venomous; lies camouflaged on soft bottoms.
Where does the Longspine scorpionfish live?
The Longspine scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic, on soft bottoms of the continental shelf and the slope.
How big does the Longspine scorpionfish get?
The Longspine scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 32 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Longspine scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Longspine scorpionfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from the venomous fin spines: immerse the affected area in hot water (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to ease pain, clean the wound, and seek medical care if symptoms are severe.
Is the Longspine scorpionfish edible?
The Longspine scorpionfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pontinus
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Longspine scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longspine scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.